Home Safety

HOME SAFETY Home Hazard Check

During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. Anything that can move, fall, break, or cause a fire is a home hazard. For example, a hot water heater or bookshelf can fall. Inspect your home at least once a year and fix potential hazards. Contact North Metro Fire Rescue at 720.887.0404 to learn about Home Safety.

Conduct a Home Hazard Hunt

 Repair or replace defective electrical wiring, frayed or cracked extension and appliance cords, loose prongs, and plugs.  Make sure there is only one plug per outlet. ·If you must use an extension cord, use a cord that is rated for the electrical load and no longer than is really needed.  Remove electrical cords that run under rugs or over nails, heaters, or pipes.  Cover exposed outlets and wiring.  Repair or replace appliances that overheat, short out, smoke, or spark.  Repair leaky gas connections.  Anchor water heater, large appliances, bookcases, tall or heavy furniture, shelves, mirrors, and pictures to wall studs.  Fit water heater with a flexible gas supply line.  Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.  Install clips, latches, or other locking devices on cabinet doors.  Provide strong support and flexible connections on gas appliances.  Brace overhead light fixtures.  Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds and places where people sit.  Repair cracks in ceilings or foundations.  Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products away from heat sources.  Place oily polishing rags or waste in covered metal cans.  Keep stairs and walkways clear of clutter; items such as shoes, magazines, backpacks, toys, etc.  Ensure that throw rugs have non-skid backing or are securely fastened with an adhesive or double stick tape.